Contents:

1. How meditation leads to understanding of the essence of Life

2. Wisdom I’ve found along the way

First of all!

This week, I haven't been feeling quite motivated to write, and as a result, the quality of my content may have suffered.

I value your readership and the trust you have placed in me as your source of information and inspiration. Your support is greatly appreciated, and I want to deliver the best possible content to meet your expectations.

I look forward to sharing more valuable insights and discussions on these topics in the upcoming editions of the newsletter.

1. How meditation leads to understanding of the essence of Life

During a captivating conversation on the Lex Freedman's podcast, I had the pleasure of hearing Sam Harris share some intriguing thoughts that I believe hold immense value. The question that piqued my curiosity was this:

What is the essence of life? 

This is the paramount question. But I strongly believe that it is answered in the wrong way.

For me, it is not about having more and/or necessary information. It is about having more engagement with reality in the present moment. This question is not being asked when you are being present on the particular event, emotion or feeling. It is not being asked when you are being with the loved ones, family. It is not being asked when you are experiencing joy from your work or when you are feeling intense pain and suffering.

This important question is being asked when you are being abstracted from the experience itself. We are speaking about these experiences outside of these experiences.

We can’t really focus on the present anymore. There is always more things to do, schedules to follow, meetings to have. There is constantly more stuff to do. I really do believe that we are failing to focus on the present. Why focusing on the present is important? You may ask.

Well, because when we feel whatever emotion or feeling, we tend to judge it based on pleasantness/unpleasantness. But the thing is: we don’t have enough evidence that what we experience is actually not the most remarkable moment of our lives.

We’ve become so judgemental of our experiences that we don’t see them “as they are”.

This is why I strongly believe that Sam Harris’ approach to the question of the meaning of life is so important!

His opinion on the question is almost radically different: he urges us to become focused on the present moment. Why?

Well, because if we don't know how to focus, we have no evidence that the present moment, whatever it may be, is not the best moment of our life. That’s it. Simple!

So, another question arises: How to develop this ability to focus? The best option - is to learn how to meditate.

I highly recommend watching whole episode. Here are some additional benefits of meditation according to Sam Harris:

Meditation helps:

Cultivate mindfulness and awareness: Greater clarity and calmness in daily life result from the ability to notice thoughts, emotions, and sensations without becoming overwhelmed by them thanks to this awareness.

Investigate the nature of consciousness: Harris encourages people to meditate in order to learn more about the fundamental basis of consciousness. One can get insights into the illusory and transitory character of the self, as well as the interaction between subjective experience and the outside world, by monitoring the coming and passing of ideas, sensations, and perceptions.

Examine the illusion of the self: Harris argues that meditation can provide a direct sense of the self as a mental construct rather than a lasting actuality when looking at the illusion of the self. One can start to doubt the idea of a fixed and separate self by witnessing the unceasing flow of thoughts and sensations without identifying with them, which leads to a greater comprehension of one's own identity and interconnectivity.

Cultivate a sense of well-being and happiness: Increasing feelings of happiness and contentment: People can increase their feelings of happiness and contentment by regularly practicing meditation. Even in the midst of trials and hardships, one can discover more joy and fulfillment in life by practicing virtues like appreciation, compassion, and acceptance.

And, another one: Enhancing cognitive abilities. Harris examines evidence that suggests meditation can improve mental abilities like focus, working memory, and flexibility. People may experience increases in their cognitive capacities by practicing the ability to focus and pay attention for extended periods of time. These improvements can be useful in learning, problem-solving, and making decisions, among other areas of daily life.

In conclusion, the essence of life extends beyond mere information. It lies in our ability to be fully present in each moment, embracing the richness of experiences. Sam Harris' perspective on the meaning of life serves as a powerful reminder to focus on the present.

2. Wisdom I’ve found along the way

This is a general Stoic idea. Do you often find yourself worried in advance? This tweet is deeply connected to the topic I was writing about. Imagine if you could really focus on your feeling in these precise moments when you are anticipating, when you feel anxious.

Love Robert Greene. I find all of his books of great value. Make sure to check them out!

Here is another one from him: It seems simple, yet it is full of wisdom.

A Quote of Seneca I’ve found interesting. One can speculate a lot about the importance of learning. No one is doubting the importance of constantly learning new things, developing new skills. In fact, it should be your life-long journey.

Oh, Alex Hormozi… This individual is the GOAT. If you haven’t watched his content (mainly for entrepreneurs) - make sure to check it out!

This is all for this Episode!

Hey, Thank You for reading till the end!

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I’m always grateful to have you as a reader! I am excited for the future episodes!

As always, looking forward to hearing your feedback.